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It's Not All Waste: The Complicated Life of Surplus Electronics In Africa
retroworks writes "Today's Science Daily reports on 5 new UN studies of used computer and electronics management in Africa. The studies find that about 85% of surplus electronics imports are reused, not discarded. Most of the goods pictured in 'primitive e-waste' articles were domestically generated and have been in use, or reused, for years. Africa's technology lifecycle for displays is 2-3 times the productive use cycle in OECD nations. Still, EU bans the trade of used technology to Africa, Interpol has describes 'most' African computer importers as 'criminals,' and U.S. bill HR2284 would do the same. Can Africa 'leapfrog' to newer and better tech? Or are geeks and fixers the appropriate technology for 83% of the world (non-OECD's population)? "
I'm a heavy F/OSS advocate and user. I had started using Windows at 3.x but when F/OSS came out, I realized the importance of it and abandoned using MS software for all but the things that Wine couldn't do. However, when it comes to Microsoft vs. Apple, I honestly have to side with Microsoft. No, I don't like Microsoft -- I personally consider their OS to be full of bugs, in need of an entire rebuild from the bottom-up, and I find their treatment of security and bugs to be terrible...not to mention the prices for all of that software hell is ridiculous. I use their products only when necessary for work/school. However, Apple makes their products so much about fashion then considering their ridiculously numerous number of lawsuits against almost anything with a pulse...in my mind, that almost turns them into the high school bully -- all about fashion, then stepping on others. To put it simply: that's just not cool with me. They're a very powerful company and I don't feel they use it to the right end. It's just a personal opinion, take it for what it's worth...but if having an F/OSS advocate give sympathy to Microsoft is the sign of the end of the world, if ever a brawl should formally come about between Apple and Microsoft, buy some scotch, a sports car, and go on gamblin' because I know what side this F/OSS user would be on...